This is a place for those of us who have already started TTC, but have started infertility testing and/or treatments. You can express your thoughts, feelings, and frustrations on infertility. TTC can be a long journey naturally, then add in the difficulties associated with infertility, and it becomes a whole new ball game. The road to infertility can be lonely, frustrating, and complicated, so let's make this a place where we can vent, ask questions, and support one another. Feel free to resurrect this thread at any point in the week if you have something to say. Treat this as an ongoing conversation.
Diagnosis (if you've been):
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA):
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?):
How are things going?:
Any questions?:
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.)
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): on our own, RE appt on Wednesday
How are things going?: I’m excited for the appointment on Wednesday and that DH is coming. I’m tired of feeling like I’m sitting around doing nothing, and I told DH I almost feel like any HIO we do is pointless since we obviously need some assistance!
Any questions?: are there any questions about the protocol I should be sure to ask the RE this week? My assumption is that we will just be nailing down the treatment plan for the next several cycles, but I’m not 100% sure what to expect (we already had the initial appt)
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? I love all the fall candle scents, especially anything that’s apple cinnamon - ish! Also, the smell of garlic roasting. Mmmmm.
@b_1029 Maybe ask how often you should expect to be there for monitoring so you can attempt to block out mornings on your schedule.
Diagnosis (if you've been): mild MF & LP issues
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): just holding out on POAS. I do have a second opinion appt with an RE at a bigger medical center tomorrow to see how she would proceed with us if this cycle fails.
How are things going?: okay. I'm only 5DPO and I have decided an HCG trigger + progesterone supps is some kind of special hell...
Any questions?: so here is one - the PA who did my IUI told me to test on 14DPO and call, but I told her I'd be calling before then because even on my progesterone my period comes no later than 11DPO now. She seemed concerned and I have now read a lot of places that women don't start until they cease progesterone. Should I be pushing for a higher dose/suppositories with my oral pills? I'm on 400mg now. I'll also be asking at my second opinion appt tomorrow.
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc. So I discovered a perfume that now makes me a scent snob. I wear Bond no 9 Madison Ave and I am OBSESSED. I also love candles with a warmer scent for fall/winter... they make me so happy.
@b_1029 Good luck on Wednesday - hopefully you can get started quickly!
Diagnosis (if you've been): DOR
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): IVF consult is today!!
How are things going?: I'm really excited for my consult this afternoon. I feel like today marks the start of real progress (hopefully) .
Any questions?: Nope.
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) Hmmmm.... I love the smell of the coast, of fall, and of those pine Yankee candles that make it feel like Christmas.
@b_1029 hopefully your appointment makes a good game plan for moving forward! Your mention of roasted garlic made me hungry!
Diagnosis (if you've been): PCOS
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): benched
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): pre-op appointment tomorrow afternoon and hysteroscopy on Friday
How are things going?: Pretty good since it's finally the week of the appt and surgery! I'm just ready to move forward and get some more answers and information
Any questions?: For a hysteroscopy, do you get to see the video they take of your uterus? I really want to be able to see it!
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? Fresh lilac. My home church has some huuuuuge lilac bushes outside and when you're in the parking lot you can smell them! We always cut some off and bring them home because they give off such a nice aroma for a few days. I'm already planning where to plant a lilac bush at our house!
Diagnosis (if you've been): RPL, possible LP defect, but still waiting on results of some initial testing
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Trying on our own, hopefully doing something after O
How are things going?: We have our follow-up on Thursday this week, so I am feeling pretty good. We many not get any definite answers, but we'll hopefully be able to rule things out.
Any questions?: Since I've already had my hycosy scan and everything is clear, is the remaining RPL screening just bloodwork?
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) Ooooh, this is so hard, there's too many to choose one favorite! Fresh cinnamon rolls and lilacs are the first thing that come to mind.
@chichiphin I know for me I never got AF until a few days after stopping progesterone. But I've read and heard some people will get AF even with progesterone. Fx it doesn't matter and this is the cycle for you!
@ruby696 Yay for your IVF consult! Let us know how it goes! It's exciting that we might be doing IVF around the same time!
Diagnosis (if you've been): PCOS, Unexplained RPL
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WFIVF
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): 16 more days of BCP then Saline Sono and then some more BCP then IVF! I am literally counting down the days lol.
How are things going?: I'm ok. It feels odd to be on BCP after all this time TTC. But I am excited to start IVF soon.
Any questions?: So I started NeoQ10 this weekend. My nurse said it will help with egg quality. But I thought I read somewhere that anything you do to help egg quality doesn't really take affect for like 3 months? Is that true? Cause I know the loose timeline is to do an ER around early sept so starting it in Mid July wouldn't really be 3 months, but I have been doing so much this last year trying to be healthy (losing weight, switched to decaf, regular exercise, no alcohol)so idk if it would be worth it to wait even longer. Any thoughts?
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) I love vanilla and anything that smells like coffee.
@b_1029 IKWYM about feeling like HIO is pointless. If it was going to work that way, we wouldn't still be here!! (I know it's stupid to think that because there's obviously a chance, but with every failed cycle the chances seem to get smaller and smaller...). Hugs, friend! You're doing everything right. Excited about your RE appt, update us on how that goes!
@ruby696 yeah for your consult!! I'll be interested to hear how everything goes and what your time line will be! Update us over here!
@chichiphin I know the trigger & progesterone are rough but here's hoping it's for a good cause this cycle!! I'm feeling really good about your IUI, FX so hard!
@mokay19 hope everything goes well on Friday!! I'm hoping it will give you some answers so you can move forward and get off the bench (:
Diagnosis: unexplained
Status: TWW
What are you doing this cycle? Clomid, 50mg on CD3-7. And, today I will be turning back into my most annoying self to make sure my OB actually faxes over my referral to the RE. I will spend all week on the phone if I must!
How are things going? Medium. I have a lot of difficult things coming up in the next month that I'm not looking forward to still not being KU. And a ton of travel for both work and fun. In the next 3 weeks, I will be in 7 different states on 4 trips! Yikes.
Any questions? Nope, but I'm sure I will once I actually get my consult!
GTKY: My favorite scent is always some combination of vanilla and coconut. I also loooove the smell of sautéing butter with onion and garlic. Also, (this one's random) in high school and college I worked for Papa Murphy's and I absolutely loved the smell of the walk-in cooler. Not sure why, it just smelled... Cold? Fresh? Either way I would make lots of excuses for myself to go in there as many times per shift as possible. 😂
@chichiphin have they checked your progesterone levels even while on the meds before? That might be a good thing to have them do to make sure your dose is keeping it high enough.
@emeraldduchess my RPL was just blood work, a saline sono, and then the hysteroscopy. I know for some people, they recommend more extensive genetic testing for both partners. But, for us, the genetic testing isn't covered under insurance so we've held off on that for now--I've already done the Natera so I'm trying to save some money haha
@hanshotfirst77 I have also always heard that it takes 3 months for anything you're doing to be effective on the maturing eggs. However, since IVF stimulates a bunch of follicles, maybe it's more effective faster since you're maturing follicles that may have not matured...? Literally just made that up as a possibility haha
@mokay19 I'll be thinking of you this week - I'm happy though that your surgery is happening and it'll be over soon enough. And I have only been tested once **tw** during my one successful cycle before my loss, and it was at 200, so I guess there is an argument to be made that if I implant, I don't need it? @ruby696 I can't WAIT to hear about your consult and next steps!!! so excited for you @emeraldduchess I'm also on pins and needles for your follow up on Thursday! So much activity around here @jennifer_louise aw thanks - I really hope this one works too. I'm really hoping this cycle is yours too and you don't even need that referral - but also give em hell until they fax it over lol @hanshotfirst77 I know supplements don't do much for sperm until about the 3 mo mark, but I'm not sure about eggs. but hey! can't hurt and can only help!
Ooh @emeraldduchess cinnamon rolls is a good one. One of my friends makes homemade cinnamon rolls that are to die for. Just thinking about them makes me gain 2 lbs. And yes, let us know how it goes this week!!
@hanshotfirst77 I'm sure it does feel weird to be on BCP, but eyes on the prize!! You're getting so close.
Edited because apparently I can't do words at all today...
@ruby696 good luck today! Please come back and update us!
@mokay19 thanks for the info! We probably won't do the genetic testing if our insurance doesn't cover it (they covered screening for cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy but that's it). TBH I think it's going to come down to a hormone imbalance/LP defect since my hycosy showed my ute looks fine.
@jennifer_louise I hope you don't have to spend too much time on the phone trying to get your referral.
@hanshotfirst77 I don't blame you for counting down! It must feel good to know you're getting one step closer every day!
@mokay19 I LOVE the scent of lilacs! I would love a lilac bush but DH is allergic to flowers with scent and a lilac bush would probably make him miserable. Good luck this week with your hysteroscopy!
@chichiphin good luck tomorrow! Glad you're being proactive about the next cycle, but I REALLY hope that you won't need whatever plan the new RE makes! Crossing everything for you!
@b_1029 good luck at your appointment on Wednesday! I hope the RE is able to give you a plan that you and your DH are comfortable with.
@chichiphin I was just on a two week round of progesterone suppositories to jump-start my period and I got AF a week in. Obviously anecdotal, but it can happen.
Diagnosis (if you've been): PCOS
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Femara CD 3-7, US, trigger, timed intercourse
How are things going?: Good! Started Femara last night. Feeling SUPER happy about when AF showed up. We're out of town Friday-Tuesday and AF came just in time that the US is scheduled for Wednesday, when we're back and still not at work. Because that worked out so well, it's giving me hope that this cycle may work!
Any questions?: nope
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) Delicious food, lavender, but mostly the smell of Fall.
Me: 28, DH: 28 Diagnosed with PCOS: Summer 2007 Married: July 2013 Began TTC: June 2015
@mokay19 that's a really good question. I feel like my clinic would just give me a summary vs showing me what they saw. But maybe every clinic is different and it wouldn't hurt to ask?
@hanshotfirst77 I had the same feelings about being on BC again going through IVF. Like excuse me? Per the RNs and the RE it helps keep hormones in check or something.
@jennifer_louise you have a strange nose my friend, but yes, roasted garlic and onions smell amazing!
Diagnosis (if you've been): unexplained
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WFFET
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): I'm close to the end of BC cycle 1, start that up again next week, saline sono today, start meds in August and FET mid September
How are things going?: Bummed out today. My saline sono showed irregular lining again and possibly a polyp. Surgery scheduled for 8/6. Also still have to work out the BS with my prescription insurance. Apparently they won't cover lupron because it's only covered for prostate cancer. Probably going to look into an appeal because they covered it last time so wtf!?
Any questions?: Anything I should know for this surgery? I think it's a hysteroscopy. How's the pain?
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) I love pine scent, breakfast food, and DH. There's something comforting about whatever scent he wears. One of the Axe scents. Also I have a weird love of the smell of a metal shop and metals in general.
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
***Lurker*** @chichiphin I always got AF even on progesterone (TW** unless I was pregnant*** end TW), Progesterone is one of those things that unless you have a proven progesterone defect won't hurt but may not help. Some REs/MFM's think its more hoodoo voodoo and won't give you an Rx. Others figure why not. (There is a lot of conflicting information about the pros/cons of progesterone supplementation in the literature, and how you supplement- oral vs suppositories)
*TW*
TTC 1/2012 Diagnosed : unexplained infertility 6 rounds of IUI and a MC 2/2014, rainbow twins 4/2015 TTC #3 5/2016 Restarted Fertility tx IUI 2 rounds, baby girl 12/17
@chichiphin good call. I hope your appointment goes well tomorrow!
@ruby696 yay it's finally here! Can't wait to hear how your consult goes today!
@mokay19 so many appts this week - I hope yours goes well tomorrow! I'm glad you'll be getting some more answers after that and your surgery Friday. Let us know how it goes!
@hanshotfirst77 it would definitely be weird to go back on BCP - I hope the next couple of weeks fly by before your sono! I've also read that it takes 3 mo. for any changes to be reflected both for eggs and sperm...at least I think so?
@jennifer_louise yep, you nailed it! WTF to your OB for still not sending the referral - cmon!! I'm sorry for all the upcoming "stuff", friend
@firebaby688 I'm glad the timing will work out well this cycle! FX for you!
@inthewoods23 so sorry about the sono and all the insurance BS. I hope the surgery goes well in a few weeks and everything goes back to normal. I hope the appeal works, that's so weird that they covered it last time but not this time?
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Femara (CD3-7), Metformin, and Progesterone BW on Friday to confirm O...so hopefully it happens before then. Awaiting RE appt. on August 15th.
How are things going?: Not bad, just really wishing our RE appointment was closer...I’m ready to get some extra testing going and hopefully get a plan of action (at the very least I’d like to be monitored on cycles to have a better idea of what’s going on).
Any questions?: None right now
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? I love any sweet scents, but cookies or brownies fresh out of the oven would probably be my all-time favorite!
@b_1029 I hope your RE appt. on Wednesday goes great and you get a plan of action!
@chichiphin good luck with your second opinion RE appt, but hopefully it’s not needed because your IUI will be a success!
@ruby696 that’s exciting you have your IVF consult, hope it goes well!!
@mokay19 good luck with your appt. & scan later this week!
@emeraldduchess hope you get some answers (even if it is just answers of what it’s not) at your follow-up this week! Oh, I love the smell of cinnamon rolls too!
@hanshotfirst77 I’m sure it does feel super weird to be on BC...hopefully the time will fly by! I don’t have any insight on the supplements/egg quality, but way to go on all the other things you’ve done to get healthy this year!!
@jennifer_louise hopefully getting your referral from the OB won’t be too difficult! Wow, that is a lot of travel...hope the fun outweighs the work!
@firebaby688 glad timing worked out perfectly for your US!
@inthewoods23 sorry the scan showed irregular lining & possible polyp, is the surgery supposed to correct both? Hopefully insurance will straighten things out and cover your prescription again!
Diagnosis (if you've been): AMA, low progesterone, VWD that probably isn’t a big issue, ???
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): getting my CD21 progesterone checked today. I’m super happy about that since I’ll now have two data points before the RE appointment.
How are things going?: Kind of annoyed with the timing of everything lately. If I had been able to keep my June appointment, it would have made things easier. Now any RE stuff will have to be when I go back to work in the fall and it’s like impossible to take off when school first starts back up. I know how hard it is for people to juggle monitoring. Add in my commute and inflexible schedule = hoping things are easy.
Any questions?: Who takes progesterone during the TWW? Whose docs say only after a BFP? (My sister says taking it during TWW its only for people undergoing IVF near where she lives and a local friend’s OB says to only take it after a positive.) ETA: just saw some talk above after posting
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.)
Sunscreen for sure! It means summer. I have a creamsicle scented after sun lotion that’s pretty good, too and I love Downy / Bounce dryer sheets!
It's funny how it's the little things in life that mean the most...not where you live, or what you drive, or the price tag on your clothes... There's no dollar sign on a piece of mind, this I've come to know! *ZBB*
@chichiphin *TW loss mentioned* I started bleeding even when on the progesterone, but then again it was super low. I was on 200mg oral. @jennifer_louise Any fun locations or plans while working? @emeraldduchess Mine was just bloodwork, but it was done by a hematologist after getting some abnormal bloodwork before IF stuff. @inthewoods23 I just want to yell on your behalf. I hope they cover it and that the procedure works. @hanshotfirst77 I’ve read that some supplements can take up to 4 months to have an effect on egg and sperm quality, but I’m not sure how much research has been done. If certain drugs can have an immediate effect, I feel like the supplements could possibly work earlier. I am grabbing some selenium and CoQ10 because I haven’t taken it in a long time...
ETA more tags
It's funny how it's the little things in life that mean the most...not where you live, or what you drive, or the price tag on your clothes... There's no dollar sign on a piece of mind, this I've come to know! *ZBB*
@NYTino24 I take progesterone right after (or within a few days after) ovulation every single cycle that I've had since my very first loss in 2016. I still think the idea to wait til a BFP is strange. I know some doctors say that there isn't concrete proof that it helps, but there isn't a negative to taking it. Plus, I'm the kind of person that I would rather do extra than risk not doing enough.
@NYTino24 echoing @mokay19 - it certainly does not hurt anything to take progesterone once ovulation is confirmed - this has been confirmed by my RE and OB. @bluetickgal you're almost there tho for your appt! hoping you don't need it though! @inthewoods23 ugh I'm so sorry you have to go through that surgery! I'm hoping recovery is quick
@jennifer_louise my RE's office has been very "practical" about coffee/caffeine, certain foods, etc. Moderation is all they preach. They only time exercise was brought up was on the day of my IUI - I couldn't do any vigorous activity (except HIO that night lol).
I do know that a lot of RE's have a BMI threshold and they won't treat someone who is over a certain BMI.
@jennifer_louise I know my RE asked our caffeine intake as part of our initial consultation. Since we're for the most part only soda drinkers, she wasn't concerned. In fact, nothing in our medical history was a concern. She said we didn't need to do anything about our weight. If anything, she suggested getting more exercise but not like "you should be working out 4-5 days a week to lose weight and get down to X weight"
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
would it be worthless to test trigger hcg at this point with my cheapies? I'm 7 days post trigger, 5DPO. I didn't want to test it out completely, but I am at the point where it is impossible for a BFP but also about the time when the trigger should be leaving my system soon. or will I just drive myself crazy ha.
@chichiphin@inthewoods23 thanks! That's helpful! I am always trying to cut back on caffeine and now I'm in a place where don't drink coffee everyday but I do sometimes! It always worries me 😂 but not so much that I never want coffee. I do exercise kinda vigorously sometimes and always wonder what that does for my chances. Thanks!
@chichiphin oh interesting. That would probably drive me nuts, but you could do it for science!
@inthewoods23 I'm sorry about the surgery, I hope it goes smoothly!
@bluetickgal I hope you don't need it, but Fx the RE appt is here before you know it!
@NYTino24 I’ve always taken Progesterone right after confirming or O or 1dpIUI.
@jennifer_louise My RE has mentioned weight as a factor but does not push a certain BMI limitation or anything like that. He never brought up coffee/caffeine. Although I decided on my own to just switch to decaf and drink in moderation.
AFM my finance coordinator just emailed me and turns out the biopsy part of the PGS/PGT (idk whatever you call it) is covered. I have been wavering on to do the testing or not. I really want to but the cost was a factor. And this will cut down the cost considerably. So it makes me feel a lot better that I will be able to do the testing.
Diagnosis (if you've been): Male factor infertility
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): Couldn't find what WTO meant but I'm assuming it means Waiting Things Out? If so, that's me
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): My cycles just started this past saturday. I have to use OPK's once my periods over and as soon as I get an positive LH surge I call my Dr. and schedule my IUI for the next day!
How are things going?: Things are finally going well. We've gotten so many positive answers and things are finally moving to the final*ish* stage.
Any questions?: This will be my first round of IUI, I'm wondering if anyone else has done one and if they have any advice or suggestions.
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? : Watermelon Lemonade candles from Bath&Body works!!
@chichiphin if you haven’t been tracking it, testing now will drive you crazy! I would at least wait until 10 DPTrigger before testing. Good luck though! 😆
@ndemick WTO = waiting to ovulate Welcome and I’m sorry that you have to be here! Since this is the IF discussion, a lot of the women in this section have done IUIs... and then some! Good luck!
@hanshotfirst77 what great news!! That must be a load off your mind.
@Ndemick welcome! Have you been around here previously? You may want to intro I'm this week's "Newbie Intro" thread to greet everyone. (unless you just plan on hanging around here in the IF thread). WTO is waiting to ovulate, TWW is the two week wait after ovulation, and TTA is trying to avoid. Although personally, I kinda like "waiting things out" lol. There are several around here who have done (or are doing!) IUIs. Good luck!
@hanshotfirst77 That sounds like such a relief to know that insurance will cover that. Hooray!
@jennifer_louise They STILL haven’t sent the referral??! I’m fuming on your behalf!
@b_1029 GL on Wednesday! I’m glad that your husband is going too! As far as questions, maybe ask about the timeline for whatever measures get put in place? I like knowing next steps and big picture at the beginning as much as possible. Also possible side effects of anything they want to do? I hope the appointment goes well and brings some hope and comfort!
@chichiphin sorry that I can’t help with your questions. I hope tomorrow’s appointment will get that all answered for you! I hope that this all works out tho so that you don’t have a need for a new RE!
@ruby696 I’m excited to hear you report back about today’s appointment!! I’m so glad it’s finally here!
@mokay19 I think they can take pictures while they’re in there. I was excited to see my pictures from my lap but they were misplaced when I went in for my follow up, and I was super bummed about it. GL with Friday!! Also, lilac IS heavenly! Our neighbors have a bush that bends into our yard, and we may just help ourselves to some flowers occasionally.
@jennifer_louise I’m sorry that there are some rough patches and lots of travel ahead for you! One step at a time, right? Hugs to you! And a walk in freezer room smell? Ha, I hope to see that scent labeled on a candle or air freshener one day for you. 😆
@firebaby688 Timing like that never happens! Good for you guys!
@inthewoods23 so sorry about the results today!! So is the surgery to remove some of the lining for testing, or to clean house? Did they say how long recovery would be? I had a lap, and I was unable to really do anything much for 3 days, so wasn’t the worst thing ever, just took a little while to bounce back. If it’s a hysteroscopy, I would think it’s a small biopsy rather than surgery. I had that to check on a polyp I think. The removal didn’t hurt. I think it was just spotting/cramping because of the speculum. Also, totally random, but I kinda like the smell of metal too!
@bluetickgal I hear you on hating this waiting game. Glad you’ve got the ball rolling!
@NYTino24 ugh, so sorry about the timing. How many days do you get during the year? I think I was limited to 2 personal and maybe 9 sick AND there are so many blackout dates. Ugh, I hope things get worked out well before then so that you won’t need any re appointments by then!
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): on orilissa pack 9 of 12; us on Friday
How are things going?: I’m annoyed at my RE office. The receptionist called me last week as a follow up for mh calling to ask about the sa. She asked if I had had a follow up ultrasound to check that my body was responding appropriately to the meds because “most patients get checked after a month of use.” Aarghh. Well, I’m now going to be starting my 10th week on it on Friday, so I’m REALLY hoping they don’t give me bad news. I will lose it if they do. I’ve been counting down the days until we can try again, and I get so attached to the timelines I have in my head. I think about switching re, but I hate the red tape, and I’m not sure how insurance would work. I’m really hoping that I can just be magically pregnant as soon as I’m off the bench. I’m a little bit dreading how I’m going to feel when that doesn’t happen. One step at a time, one step at a time.
Any questions?: no thanks
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) gardenias! Mmmm
@begging4abump I’ll have to request pictures and hope mine don’t get lost! Also, that’s super annoying that they’re just mentioning a follow-up ultrasound now. I hope Friday brings good news!
@begging4abump wtf with your RE office!? Ugh I hate when they don't communicate things like that. And yes, the surgery would be cleaning my ute out to make it nice and smooth.
And just to kick me down a little more today.... *TW pregnancy mentioned*
My friend who has been a huge supporter for me during this IF process just told me she's 12 weeks with an unplanned (they were going to start right away after their wedding in October). I'm both very excited and happy for her but also like FU IF and taking forever for things to happen. It's not like my FET can be any sooner so whatever, I can't be too mad about it. I did have a very short moment of wanting to cry but I got over it really quickly. I am mad that she's one with really irregular periods and yet had no problem. In the months she was tracking they were anywhere from 24 to 40 days, but she was only tracking CM and doing the pullout method. Darn fertile people!!
At least I don't have to worry about my bridesmaid dress. She has to hope they can alter her wedding dress to fit her bump. Whomp whomp. Lol.
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
@begging4abump I feel so special to be tagged twice!! Guess we know who is your fave 😉 (jk!). Thanks for your outrage on my behalf! I just got a note from my OB saying they're sending it over as we speak! (we'll see....) but booo that your RE dropped the ball on getting you in for that ultrasound! I'll keep my fingers crossed that all looks normal. I'm so optimistic for you that.
@inthewoods23 sorry for the unexpected punch in the ute. It's okay to cry, or to feel conflicted. It doesn't make you a bad friend, it makes you a human. I actually have a list of all PG announcements I've gotten while TTC. It's somehow cathartic to write them down, not sure why.
Wow, so much going on here today! My consult went well, but I'm a little bit overwhelmed. My RE wants to do a fresh transfer, so we're looking at mid/late August, which seems so soon! I also just found out my OB hasn't even written the letter to my insurance company, so there's no way we'll get my RE approved before the beginning of my next cycle, which is required for insurance to cover 50%. So we have to decide if we want to go ahead and pay OOP or wait and risk my insurance denying my request for coverage for an out of network provider and then being another month behind (as my eggs get older and older) and having to pay out of pocket anyway.
Also, because I'm a poor responder with a history of loss, she thinks transfering two or three would be best. Say what?! I feel very confident that we will say no to three.
@ruby696 I hate the walls and obstacles that we have to go through with insurances! I’m glad the appointment went well though and it seems like your RE is ready to hit the ground running! My doctors office has said before that when they put requests in, sometimes it helps to call and check on it because sometimes you’ll get someone who can look it over right away. Obviously, not always the case but maybe if the OB writes it asap then it can sneak in in time!
@ruby696 Wow that is so exciting! I am glad the consult went good and you could be moving ahead so fast. Insurance can be so annoying though. I'd agree try calling once your doc puts the orders in. I've had to call and call and call sometimes and just basically bug the hell out of the insurance people to try and move auths along as quick as possible, Sometimes you get lucky and they'll push it through. Fx!
@jennifer_louise maybe it was just a test to see if you’re reading my whole message 😉. Ha, these boards develop too quickly for me, so double messages may happen again. But I also guess you’re not really wrong either. You know I’m rooting hard for you! 🙂
@inthewoods sorry about the surprise announcement. It’s a lot of emotions to sort through, but don’t lose hope. ❤️
@ruby696 that IS so soon!!! And that is a tough decision! I hope something works out so that you can move forward soon with insurance. 🤞
Re: IF testing and treatment w/o 7/15
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): on our own, RE appt on Wednesday
How are things going?: I’m excited for the appointment on Wednesday and that DH is coming. I’m tired of feeling like I’m sitting around doing nothing, and I told DH I almost feel like any HIO we do is pointless since we obviously need some assistance!
Any questions?: are there any questions about the protocol I should be sure to ask the RE this week? My assumption is that we will just be nailing down the treatment plan for the next several cycles, but I’m not 100% sure what to expect (we already had the initial appt)
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? I love all the fall candle scents, especially anything that’s apple cinnamon - ish! Also, the smell of garlic roasting. Mmmmm.
Diagnosis (if you've been): mild MF & LP issues
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): just holding out on POAS. I do have a second opinion appt with an RE at a bigger medical center tomorrow to see how she would proceed with us if this cycle fails.
How are things going?: okay. I'm only 5DPO and I have decided an HCG trigger + progesterone supps is some kind of special hell...
Any questions?: so here is one - the PA who did my IUI told me to test on 14DPO and call, but I told her I'd be calling before then because even on my progesterone my period comes no later than 11DPO now. She seemed concerned and I have now read a lot of places that women don't start until they cease progesterone. Should I be pushing for a higher dose/suppositories with my oral pills? I'm on 400mg now. I'll also be asking at my second opinion appt tomorrow.
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc. So I discovered a perfume that now makes me a scent snob. I wear Bond no 9 Madison Ave and I am OBSESSED. I also love candles with a warmer scent for fall/winter... they make me so happy.
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
Diagnosis (if you've been): DOR
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): IVF consult is today!!
How are things going?: I'm really excited for my consult this afternoon. I feel like today marks the start of real progress (hopefully) .
Any questions?: Nope.
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) Hmmmm.... I love the smell of the coast, of fall, and of those pine Yankee candles that make it feel like Christmas.
Diagnosis (if you've been): PCOS
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): benched
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): pre-op appointment tomorrow afternoon and hysteroscopy on Friday
How are things going?: Pretty good since it's finally the week of the appt and surgery! I'm just ready to move forward and get some more answers and information
Any questions?: For a hysteroscopy, do you get to see the video they take of your uterus? I really want to be able to see it!
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? Fresh lilac. My home church has some huuuuuge lilac bushes outside and when you're in the parking lot you can smell them! We always cut some off and bring them home because they give off such a nice aroma for a few days. I'm already planning where to plant a lilac bush at our house!
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Trying on our own, hopefully doing something after O
How are things going?: We have our follow-up on Thursday this week, so I am feeling pretty good. We many not get any definite answers, but we'll hopefully be able to rule things out.
Any questions?: Since I've already had my hycosy scan and everything is clear, is the remaining RPL screening just bloodwork?
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) Ooooh, this is so hard, there's too many to choose one favorite! Fresh cinnamon rolls and lilacs are the first thing that come to mind.
@chichiphin I know for me I never got AF until a few days after stopping progesterone. But I've read and heard some people will get AF even with progesterone. Fx it doesn't matter and this is the cycle for you!
@ruby696 Yay for your IVF consult! Let us know how it goes! It's exciting that we might be doing IVF around the same time!
Diagnosis (if you've been): PCOS, Unexplained RPL
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WFIVF
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): 16 more days of BCP then Saline Sono and then some more BCP then IVF! I am literally counting down the days lol.
How are things going?: I'm ok. It feels odd to be on BCP after all this time TTC. But I am excited to start IVF soon.
Any questions?: So I started NeoQ10 this weekend. My nurse said it will help with egg quality. But I thought I read somewhere that anything you do to help egg quality doesn't really take affect for like 3 months? Is that true? Cause I know the loose timeline is to do an ER around early sept so starting it in Mid July wouldn't really be 3 months, but I have been doing so much this last year trying to be healthy (losing weight, switched to decaf, regular exercise, no alcohol)so idk if it would be worth it to wait even longer. Any thoughts?
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.)
I love vanilla and anything that smells like coffee.
TTC#1 - March 2013
BFP 8/9/13 - EDD 4/14/14 - DS born 4/23/14
TTC#2 November 2015
Dx: Secondary IF June 2016
Medicated IUI cycle#1- Clomid+IUI -1/15/17 -BFN
Break Mid 2017 - Resumed TTC December 2018
"She believed she could so she did..."
Medicated IUI cycle#2- Femara 5mg+IUI 12/22/18 - BFP 1/4/19 - MMC 2/1/19
Saline Sono 3/15/19 - All Clear!
Medicated IUI cycle#3- Femara 7.5mg+IUI 3/28/19-BFN
Medicated IUI cycle#4- Femara 5mg+Gonal F 50iu+IUI 4/27/19- BFP 5/11/19 - MMC 6/12/19 - D&C 6/14/19-
Incomplete M/C Repeat D&C - 7/3/19 -Testing concluded baby was genetically normal
Dx: Unexplained RPL July 2019 - Tested + as carrier for Usher Syndrome & Familial Mediterranean Fever
Saline Sono 8/7/19 - Mostly Clear! All systems go for IVF#1
But will need a repeat Saline Sono between ER and FET
IVF #1 - Antagonist Protocol - 8/17/19
ER#1 8/27/19 - 12R, 6F, 4 biopsied+frozen! (3d5blasts + 1d6blast)- 2 PGS normal embabies!
Saline Sono 9/13/19 - All Clear! Onto FET Prep#1
FET#1 - 4AA -10/4/19 - BFP 10/14/19 - EDD - 6/21/20 -Beta#1-10dp5dt- 379 Beta#2-12dp5dt- 1007 Beta#3-14dp5dt- 2844
DD born 6/15/20
@ruby696 yeah for your consult!! I'll be interested to hear how everything goes and what your time line will be! Update us over here!
@chichiphin I know the trigger & progesterone are rough but here's hoping it's for a good cause this cycle!! I'm feeling really good about your IUI, FX so hard!
@mokay19 hope everything goes well on Friday!! I'm hoping it will give you some answers so you can move forward and get off the bench (:
Diagnosis: unexplained
Status: TWW
What are you doing this cycle? Clomid, 50mg on CD3-7. And, today I will be turning back into my most annoying self to make sure my OB actually faxes over my referral to the RE. I will spend all week on the phone if I must!
How are things going? Medium. I have a lot of difficult things coming up in the next month that I'm not looking forward to still not being KU. And a ton of travel for both work and fun. In the next 3 weeks, I will be in 7 different states on 4 trips! Yikes.
Any questions? Nope, but I'm sure I will once I actually get my consult!
GTKY: My favorite scent is always some combination of vanilla and coconut. I also loooove the smell of sautéing butter with onion and garlic. Also, (this one's random) in high school and college I worked for Papa Murphy's and I absolutely loved the smell of the walk-in cooler. Not sure why, it just smelled... Cold? Fresh? Either way I would make lots of excuses for myself to go in there as many times per shift as possible. 😂
@ruby696 good luck today!!!
@emeraldduchess my RPL was just blood work, a saline sono, and then the hysteroscopy. I know for some people, they recommend more extensive genetic testing for both partners. But, for us, the genetic testing isn't covered under insurance so we've held off on that for now--I've already done the Natera so I'm trying to save some money haha
@hanshotfirst77 I have also always heard that it takes 3 months for anything you're doing to be effective on the maturing eggs. However, since IVF stimulates a bunch of follicles, maybe it's more effective faster since you're maturing follicles that may have not matured...? Literally just made that up as a possibility haha
@ruby696 I can't WAIT to hear about your consult and next steps!!! so excited for you
@emeraldduchess I'm also on pins and needles for your follow up on Thursday! So much activity around here
@jennifer_louise aw thanks - I really hope this one works too. I'm really hoping this cycle is yours too and you don't even need that referral - but also give em hell until they fax it over lol
@hanshotfirst77 I know supplements don't do much for sperm until about the 3 mo mark, but I'm not sure about eggs. but hey! can't hurt and can only help!
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
@hanshotfirst77 I'm sure it does feel weird to be on BCP, but eyes on the prize!! You're getting so close.
Edited because apparently I can't do words at all today...
@mokay19 thanks for the info! We probably won't do the genetic testing if our insurance doesn't cover it (they covered screening for cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy but that's it). TBH I think it's going to come down to a hormone imbalance/LP defect since my hycosy showed my ute looks fine.
@jennifer_louise I hope you don't have to spend too much time on the phone trying to get your referral.
@hanshotfirst77 I don't blame you for counting down! It must feel good to know you're getting one step closer every day!
@mokay19 I LOVE the scent of lilacs! I would love a lilac bush but DH is allergic to flowers with scent and a lilac bush would probably make him miserable. Good luck this week with your hysteroscopy!
@chichiphin good luck tomorrow! Glad you're being proactive about the next cycle, but I REALLY hope that you won't need whatever plan the new RE makes! Crossing everything for you!
@b_1029 good luck at your appointment on Wednesday! I hope the RE is able to give you a plan that you and your DH are comfortable with.
Diagnosis (if you've been): PCOS
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Femara CD 3-7, US, trigger, timed intercourse
How are things going?: Good! Started Femara last night. Feeling SUPER happy about when AF showed up. We're out of town Friday-Tuesday and AF came just in time that the US is scheduled for Wednesday, when we're back and still not at work. Because that worked out so well, it's giving me hope that this cycle may work!
Any questions?: nope
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) Delicious food, lavender, but mostly the smell of Fall.
Diagnosed with PCOS: Summer 2007
Married: July 2013
Began TTC: June 2015
http://www.fertilityfriend.com/home/58d258
@ruby696 hope you have a good consult!
@mokay19 that's a really good question. I feel like my clinic would just give me a summary vs showing me what they saw. But maybe every clinic is different and it wouldn't hurt to ask?
@emeraldduchess cinnamon rolls are heaven!
@hanshotfirst77 I had the same feelings about being on BC again going through IVF. Like excuse me? Per the RNs and the RE it helps keep hormones in check or something.
@jennifer_louise you have a strange nose my friend, but yes, roasted garlic and onions smell amazing!
Diagnosis (if you've been): unexplained
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WFFET
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): I'm close to the end of BC cycle 1, start that up again next week, saline sono today, start meds in August and FET mid September
How are things going?: Bummed out today. My saline sono showed irregular lining again and possibly a polyp. Surgery scheduled for 8/6. Also still have to work out the BS with my prescription insurance. Apparently they won't cover lupron because it's only covered for prostate cancer. Probably going to look into an appeal because they covered it last time so wtf!?
Any questions?: Anything I should know for this surgery? I think it's a hysteroscopy. How's the pain?
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.)
I love pine scent, breakfast food, and DH. There's something comforting about whatever scent he wears. One of the Axe scents. Also I have a weird love of the smell of a metal shop and metals in general.
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
@chichiphin I always got AF even on progesterone (TW** unless I was pregnant*** end TW), Progesterone is one of those things that unless you have a proven progesterone defect won't hurt but may not help. Some REs/MFM's think its more hoodoo voodoo and won't give you an Rx. Others figure why not. (There is a lot of conflicting information about the pros/cons of progesterone supplementation in the literature, and how you supplement- oral vs suppositories)
Diagnosed : unexplained infertility
6 rounds of IUI and a MC 2/2014, rainbow twins 4/2015
TTC #3 5/2016
Restarted Fertility tx
IUI 2 rounds, baby girl 12/17
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
@ruby696 yay it's finally here! Can't wait to hear how your consult goes today!
@mokay19 so many appts this week - I hope yours goes well tomorrow! I'm glad you'll be getting some more answers after that and your surgery Friday. Let us know how it goes!
@emeraldduchess GL at your appointment this week as well!
@hanshotfirst77 it would definitely be weird to go back on BCP - I hope the next couple of weeks fly by before your sono! I've also read that it takes 3 mo. for any changes to be reflected both for eggs and sperm...at least I think so?
@jennifer_louise yep, you nailed it! WTF to your OB for still not sending the referral - cmon!! I'm sorry for all the upcoming "stuff", friend
@firebaby688 I'm glad the timing will work out well this cycle! FX for you!
@inthewoods23 so sorry about the sono and all the insurance BS. I hope the surgery goes well in a few weeks and everything goes back to normal. I hope the appeal works, that's so weird that they covered it last time but not this time?
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Femara (CD3-7), Metformin, and Progesterone BW on Friday to confirm O...so hopefully it happens before then. Awaiting RE appt. on August 15th.
How are things going?: Not bad, just really wishing our RE appointment was closer...I’m ready to get some extra testing going and hopefully get a plan of action (at the very least I’d like to be monitored on cycles to have a better idea of what’s going on).
Any questions?: None right now
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? I love any sweet scents, but cookies or brownies fresh out of the oven would probably be my all-time favorite!
@b_1029 I hope your RE appt. on Wednesday goes great and you get a plan of action!
@chichiphin good luck with your second opinion RE appt, but hopefully it’s not needed because your IUI will be a success!
@ruby696 that’s exciting you have your IVF consult, hope it goes well!!
@mokay19 good luck with your appt. & scan later this week!
@emeraldduchess hope you get some answers (even if it is just answers of what it’s not) at your follow-up this week! Oh, I love the smell of cinnamon rolls too!
@hanshotfirst77 I’m sure it does feel super weird to be on BC...hopefully the time will fly by! I don’t have any insight on the supplements/egg quality, but way to go on all the other things you’ve done to get healthy this year!!
@jennifer_louise hopefully getting your referral from the OB won’t be too difficult! Wow, that is a lot of travel...hope the fun outweighs the work!
@firebaby688 glad timing worked out perfectly for your US!
@inthewoods23 sorry the scan showed irregular lining & possible polyp, is the surgery supposed to correct both? Hopefully insurance will straighten things out and cover your prescription again!
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): getting my CD21 progesterone checked today. I’m super happy about that since I’ll now have two data points before the RE appointment.
How are things going?: Kind of annoyed with the timing of everything lately. If I had been able to keep my June appointment, it would have made things easier. Now any RE stuff will have to be when I go back to work in the fall and it’s like impossible to take off when school first starts back up. I know how hard it is for people to juggle monitoring. Add in my commute and inflexible schedule = hoping things are easy.
Any questions?: Who takes progesterone during the TWW? Whose docs say only after a BFP? (My sister says taking it during TWW its only for people undergoing IVF near where she lives and a local friend’s OB says to only take it after a positive.) ETA: just saw some talk above after posting
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.)
Sunscreen for sure! It means summer. I have a creamsicle scented after sun lotion that’s pretty good, too and I love Downy / Bounce dryer sheets!
TTC 9/2016 BFP 12/9/16 EDD 8/21/17 NMC 1/8/16 at 7w6d
TTC 2/2017 BFP 3/6/17 EDD 11/17/17 DS born 11/25/17 via ECS
TTC 12/2018 BFP 6/2/19 EDD 2/12/20 NMC / BO at 7 weeks, low progesterone
TTC 7/2019 BFP 8/21/19 EDD 4/22/20 CP at 5 weeks
TTC 8/19 IUI #1 w/ Clomid + Ovidrel + progesterone BFN, IUI 2 and 3 w/ Letrozole + Ovidrel + progesterone,
IUI 4 Follistim + Ovidrel + progesterone BFP 1/9/20 EDD 9/18/20
AMA, ITP in pregnancy, vWD type II - low Factor VIII, unexplained RPL and secondary infertility
@jennifer_louise Any fun locations or plans while working?
@emeraldduchess Mine was just bloodwork, but it was done by a hematologist after getting some abnormal bloodwork before IF stuff.
@inthewoods23 I just want to yell on your behalf. I hope they cover it and that the procedure works.
@hanshotfirst77 I’ve read that some supplements can take up to 4 months to have an effect on egg and sperm quality, but I’m not sure how much research has been done. If certain drugs can have an immediate effect, I feel like the supplements could possibly work earlier. I am grabbing some selenium and CoQ10 because I haven’t taken it in a long time...
ETA more tags
TTC 9/2016 BFP 12/9/16 EDD 8/21/17 NMC 1/8/16 at 7w6d
TTC 2/2017 BFP 3/6/17 EDD 11/17/17 DS born 11/25/17 via ECS
TTC 12/2018 BFP 6/2/19 EDD 2/12/20 NMC / BO at 7 weeks, low progesterone
TTC 7/2019 BFP 8/21/19 EDD 4/22/20 CP at 5 weeks
TTC 8/19 IUI #1 w/ Clomid + Ovidrel + progesterone BFN, IUI 2 and 3 w/ Letrozole + Ovidrel + progesterone,
IUI 4 Follistim + Ovidrel + progesterone BFP 1/9/20 EDD 9/18/20
AMA, ITP in pregnancy, vWD type II - low Factor VIII, unexplained RPL and secondary infertility
@bluetickgal you're almost there tho for your appt! hoping you don't need it though!
@inthewoods23 ugh I'm so sorry you have to go through that surgery! I'm hoping recovery is quick
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
I do know that a lot of RE's have a BMI threshold and they won't treat someone who is over a certain BMI.
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
@chichiphin oh interesting. That would probably drive me nuts, but you could do it for science!
@firebaby688 Fx for this cycle!
@inthewoods23 I'm sorry about the surgery, I hope it goes smoothly!
@bluetickgal I hope you don't need it, but Fx the RE appt is here before you know it!
@NYTino24 I’ve always taken Progesterone right after confirming or O or 1dpIUI.
@jennifer_louise My RE has mentioned weight as a factor but does not push a certain BMI limitation or anything like that. He never brought up coffee/caffeine. Although I decided on my own to just switch to decaf and drink in moderation.
AFM my finance coordinator just emailed me and turns out the biopsy part of the PGS/PGT (idk whatever you call it) is covered. I have been wavering on to do the testing or not. I really want to but the cost was a factor. And this will cut down the cost considerably. So it makes me feel a lot better that I will be able to do the testing.
TTC#1 - March 2013
BFP 8/9/13 - EDD 4/14/14 - DS born 4/23/14
TTC#2 November 2015
Dx: Secondary IF June 2016
Medicated IUI cycle#1- Clomid+IUI -1/15/17 -BFN
Break Mid 2017 - Resumed TTC December 2018
"She believed she could so she did..."
Medicated IUI cycle#2- Femara 5mg+IUI 12/22/18 - BFP 1/4/19 - MMC 2/1/19
Saline Sono 3/15/19 - All Clear!
Medicated IUI cycle#3- Femara 7.5mg+IUI 3/28/19-BFN
Medicated IUI cycle#4- Femara 5mg+Gonal F 50iu+IUI 4/27/19- BFP 5/11/19 - MMC 6/12/19 - D&C 6/14/19-
Incomplete M/C Repeat D&C - 7/3/19 -Testing concluded baby was genetically normal
Dx: Unexplained RPL July 2019 - Tested + as carrier for Usher Syndrome & Familial Mediterranean Fever
Saline Sono 8/7/19 - Mostly Clear! All systems go for IVF#1
But will need a repeat Saline Sono between ER and FET
IVF #1 - Antagonist Protocol - 8/17/19
ER#1 8/27/19 - 12R, 6F, 4 biopsied+frozen! (3d5blasts + 1d6blast)- 2 PGS normal embabies!
Saline Sono 9/13/19 - All Clear! Onto FET Prep#1
FET#1 - 4AA -10/4/19 - BFP 10/14/19 - EDD - 6/21/20 -Beta#1-10dp5dt- 379 Beta#2-12dp5dt- 1007 Beta#3-14dp5dt- 2844
DD born 6/15/20
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): Couldn't find what WTO meant but I'm assuming it means Waiting Things Out? If so, that's me
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): My cycles just started this past saturday. I have to use OPK's once my periods over and as soon as I get an positive LH surge I call my Dr. and schedule my IUI for the next day!
How are things going?: Things are finally going well. We've gotten so many positive answers and things are finally moving to the final*ish* stage.
Any questions?: This will be my first round of IUI, I'm wondering if anyone else has done one and if they have any advice or suggestions.
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? : Watermelon Lemonade candles from Bath&Body works!!
WTO = waiting to ovulate
Welcome and I’m sorry that you have to be here! Since this is the IF discussion, a lot of the women in this section have done IUIs... and then some! Good luck!
@Ndemick welcome! Have you been around here previously? You may want to intro I'm this week's "Newbie Intro" thread to greet everyone. (unless you just plan on hanging around here in the IF thread). WTO is waiting to ovulate, TWW is the two week wait after ovulation, and TTA is trying to avoid. Although personally, I kinda like "waiting things out" lol. There are several around here who have done (or are doing!) IUIs. Good luck!
@jennifer_louise They STILL haven’t sent the referral??! I’m fuming on your behalf!
@b_1029 GL on Wednesday! I’m glad that your husband is going too! As far as questions, maybe ask about the timeline for whatever measures get put in place? I like knowing next steps and big picture at the beginning as much as possible. Also possible side effects of anything they want to do? I hope the appointment goes well and brings some hope and comfort!
@chichiphin sorry that I can’t help with your questions. I hope tomorrow’s appointment will get that all answered for you! I hope that this all works out tho so that you don’t have a need for a new RE!
@ruby696 I’m excited to hear you report back about today’s appointment!! I’m so glad it’s finally here!
@mokay19 I think they can take pictures while they’re in there. I was excited to see my pictures from my lap but they were misplaced when I went in for my follow up, and I was super bummed about it. GL with Friday!! Also, lilac IS heavenly! Our neighbors have a bush that bends into our yard, and we may just help ourselves to some flowers occasionally.
@emeraldduchess FX for good results back this week!
@jennifer_louise I’m sorry that there are some rough patches and lots of travel ahead for you! One step at a time, right? Hugs to you! And a walk in freezer room smell? Ha, I hope to see that scent labeled on a candle or air freshener one day for you. 😆
@firebaby688 Timing like that never happens! Good for you guys!
@inthewoods23 so sorry about the results today!! So is the surgery to remove some of the lining for testing, or to clean house? Did they say how long recovery would be? I had a lap, and I was unable to really do anything much for 3 days, so wasn’t the worst thing ever, just took a little while to bounce back. If it’s a hysteroscopy, I would think it’s a small biopsy rather than surgery. I had that to check on a polyp I think. The removal didn’t hurt. I think it was just spotting/cramping because of the speculum. Also, totally random, but I kinda like the smell of metal too!
@bluetickgal I hear you on hating this waiting game. Glad you’ve got the ball rolling!
@NYTino24 ugh, so sorry about the timing. How many days do you get during the year? I think I was limited to 2 personal and maybe 9 sick AND there are so many blackout dates. Ugh, I hope things get worked out well before then so that you won’t need any re appointments by then!
Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): benched
What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): on orilissa pack 9 of 12; us on Friday
How are things going?: I’m annoyed at my RE office. The receptionist called me last week as a follow up for mh calling to ask about the sa. She asked if I had had a follow up ultrasound to check that my body was responding appropriately to the meds because “most patients get checked after a month of use.” Aarghh. Well, I’m now going to be starting my 10th week on it on Friday, so I’m REALLY hoping they don’t give me bad news. I will lose it if they do. I’ve been counting down the days until we can try again, and I get so attached to the timelines I have in my head. I think about switching re, but I hate the red tape, and I’m not sure how insurance would work. I’m really hoping that I can just be magically pregnant as soon as I’m off the bench. I’m a little bit dreading how I’m going to feel when that doesn’t happen. One step at a time, one step at a time.
Any questions?: no thanks
GTKY: what is your favorite scent? (Could be a natural one, or from a candle, or from baking, or from perfume, or from a person, or from a shampoo, etc.) gardenias! Mmmm
Also, that’s super annoying that they’re just mentioning a follow-up ultrasound now. I hope Friday brings good news!
And just to kick me down a little more today.... *TW pregnancy mentioned*
At least I don't have to worry about my bridesmaid dress. She has to hope they can alter her wedding dress to fit her bump. Whomp whomp. Lol.
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
@inthewoods23 sorry for the unexpected punch in the ute. It's okay to cry, or to feel conflicted. It doesn't make you a bad friend, it makes you a human. I actually have a list of all PG announcements I've gotten while TTC. It's somehow cathartic to write them down, not sure why.
Also, because I'm a poor responder with a history of loss, she thinks transfering two or three would be best. Say what?! I feel very confident that we will say no to three.
TTC#1 - March 2013
BFP 8/9/13 - EDD 4/14/14 - DS born 4/23/14
TTC#2 November 2015
Dx: Secondary IF June 2016
Medicated IUI cycle#1- Clomid+IUI -1/15/17 -BFN
Break Mid 2017 - Resumed TTC December 2018
"She believed she could so she did..."
Medicated IUI cycle#2- Femara 5mg+IUI 12/22/18 - BFP 1/4/19 - MMC 2/1/19
Saline Sono 3/15/19 - All Clear!
Medicated IUI cycle#3- Femara 7.5mg+IUI 3/28/19-BFN
Medicated IUI cycle#4- Femara 5mg+Gonal F 50iu+IUI 4/27/19- BFP 5/11/19 - MMC 6/12/19 - D&C 6/14/19-
Incomplete M/C Repeat D&C - 7/3/19 -Testing concluded baby was genetically normal
Dx: Unexplained RPL July 2019 - Tested + as carrier for Usher Syndrome & Familial Mediterranean Fever
Saline Sono 8/7/19 - Mostly Clear! All systems go for IVF#1
But will need a repeat Saline Sono between ER and FET
IVF #1 - Antagonist Protocol - 8/17/19
ER#1 8/27/19 - 12R, 6F, 4 biopsied+frozen! (3d5blasts + 1d6blast)- 2 PGS normal embabies!
Saline Sono 9/13/19 - All Clear! Onto FET Prep#1
FET#1 - 4AA -10/4/19 - BFP 10/14/19 - EDD - 6/21/20 -Beta#1-10dp5dt- 379 Beta#2-12dp5dt- 1007 Beta#3-14dp5dt- 2844
DD born 6/15/20
@inthewoods sorry about the surprise announcement. It’s a lot of emotions to sort through, but don’t lose hope. ❤️
@ruby696 that IS so soon!!! And that is a tough decision! I hope something works out so that you can move forward soon with insurance. 🤞